On October 19, 1989, a Cessna T337G (registration N197) operated by Robert A. Harder was involved in an aviation accident near Pittsburgh, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING AND DECISION, AND DIVERTING OF HIS ATTENTION, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION TO BOTH ENGINES. DARKNESS AND TREES IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA WERE RELATED FACTORS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot diverted to avoid weather and refuel, but the landing gear failed to extend. After attempts, fuel ran out, and the aircraft struck trees short of the runway. Investigation found a hydraulic leak on the nose gear door actuator.
Flight History
The pilot diverted the aircraft to Allegheny County Airport to avoid weather and refuel. During a vector to final approach, the landing gear would not extend. For approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear. Eventually, he decided to make a gear-up landing.
Before reaching the airport, fuel to both engines was exhausted. The airplane crashed into trees short of the runway.
Investigation Findings
An investigation showed there was a hydraulic leak on the nose gear door actuator and a subsequent loss of hydraulic fluid. After the leak was repaired and the system was filled with hydraulic fluid, the landing gear operated with use of the power pack or hand pump.
What happened in the 19 Oct 1989 Cessna T337G accident near Pittsburgh, PA?
A pilot diverted to avoid weather and refuel, but the landing gear failed to extend. After attempts, fuel ran out, and the aircraft struck trees short of the runway. Investigation found a hydraulic leak on the nose gear door actuator.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Oct 1989 involved a Cessna T337G, registration N197, operated by Robert A. Harder, at Pittsburgh, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING AND DECISION, AND DIVERTING OF HIS ATTENTION, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION TO BOTH ENGINES. DARKNESS AND TREES IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA WERE RELATED FACTORS.
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